A critical step in construction is thinking about the design of the bi-fold doors that you wish to install in your home before the fabrication begins. This article discusses some of the vital design factors that you should have in mind as you order these doors.

Panel number

Bi-fold doors have panels that you can fold as you open the doors. Fewer panels take up less space when they are folded when compared to a larger number of panels. However, fewer panels mean that the glass sheets used will be wider. This can make the cost of repairing or replacing any broken glass high. More panels may mean that repair costs for a damaged sheet of glass will be lower. Discuss the other pros and cons of having more or fewer panels with the supplier so that you decide what will work for you.

Materials

You also need to think about the material from which the frames of the bi-fold doors will be made. Several factors, such as your budget and aesthetic requirements, can guide you as you make this decision. For example, you can buy bi-fold doors with PVC frames in case you want the cheaper option. However, you can opt for aluminum frames in case you want your home to look modern and sleek.

Traffic door

You also have to decide whether your bi-fold doors should have a traffic door or not. A traffic door allows you to access your home from outside even if the bi-fold doors have been locked. This is because the traffic door operates independently from the operating mechanism of the bi-fold doors. You may decide to omit having the traffic door in case there is another door that you can use to get into the house when the bi-fold doors have been locked/secured from inside the home.

Thermal insulation

People who live in areas that experience weather extremes can also consider asking for special features to enhance the thermal performance of bi-fold doors. Polyamide thermal breaks are an example of a design feature that can limit how much heat is lost or absorbed through the frames of the bi-fold doors.

You may not know the full extent of the design possibilities until you have talked to several suppliers of bi-fold doors. Take your time during the information gathering process so that you do not regret any of the decisions that you eventually make as you make yourbi-fold door order.